SAT English Practice Question

The author’s purpose in this passage is to show how the reader’s perception of language can change as they learn about the history of the language. The author begins by describing the many ways in which a common word, such as “pretty,” can be used differently in different contexts. Then, the author explains how the meaning of the word has changed over time. The author concludes by suggesting that the word “pretty” is a word that we need to be careful about, as it can mean many things depending on the context. What is the author’s main purpose?

1. A.language can be used in many different ways.
2. B.the meaning of words can change over time.
3. C.words are often used in a way that is different from their original meaning.
4. D.the meaning of words can be difficult to understand.